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Every year, Christmas goes by too fast. We spend weeks preparing, decorating and cooking and in one joyous day it’s all over and we are left with the skeletons of gifts given, a slightly dimmer gleam from lights and decorations and a dishwasher full of our special purpose flatware. While it’s a major bummer to “undeck” the halls, we still have to make conscious decisions about what to do with the ultimate in Christmas symbols: the Christmas tree.

First of all, do your research. Leaving your tree on the curb does not mean that it will be recycled or composted. Earth 911 has put together the most comprehensive list to date of recycling centers and services to date. Keep in mind that even though Christmas trees are entirely biodegradable, we still need to help them along by turning them into mulch or donating them to other eco-conscious causes.

Another Thanksgiving is upon us! We would like to take this time to thank you, our loyal customers and readers for allowing us to be a part of your life. Whether you have fenced your patio in our bamboo fences or found the perfect tiki bar to perfect your backyard oasis, we are happy to have helped you make your home as comfortable as it can be.

We are thankful for your business and support because without you, we would be unable do the things we love: build relationships with the community in which we operate and spread the word about the green revolution in the hope of making this a better world for all of us. We hope that you take this special holiday to remember and give thanks for the things you love to do. Whether love sitting on the beach on a sunny afternoon, playing basketball with friends in the park or simply enjoying the company of others slow down for just a second to count your blessings and credit your accomplishments.

Happy Halloween Bamboo and Tikis! Today is one of the best holidays of the year: when you are encouraged to shed your mild-mannered persona and become a terrifying creature of the night. This is the one holiday where you can finally live out your fantasy life. However, we remind you to do so in a safe, fun and healthy way.

Genetic modification can be a great thing – proof of societal progress, testament to efficiency and a way to end the pesky problems of life in an uncontrolled world. OR it can mean the end to life as we know it, the introduction of species not created by necessity, evolution and natural selection and a dangerous human capacity to play God. Of course, this is all according to who you talk to. In terms of genetically modified food, most people are satisfied simply with their right to know. Clear labeling allows consumers to make informed choices and to take a stand one way or the other on the use of GMOs in our food.

This blog has explored various ways to conserve energy on an individual level. But what if those efforts were federally mandated? Imagine how much energy could be saved if it was a nationwide campaign initiated from the top down rather than a grassroots movement working against the status quo of fossil fuel. The Japanese culture is in the midst of such a movement. Everything from government regulations, to corporate policies, to dedication familial practices are in place to release the country from its dependence on fossil fuels and nuclear energy.

Your Mom has been there for you your whole life. She was there for your birth, she was there to take care of you when you were sick and to support you when you were struggling. With Mother’s Day coming up this weekend, it is time to attempt the impossible and show her how much you appreciate her. If you’re stuck on what the perfect symbol of thanks might be, here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Homemade gift cards. Make Mom a booklet of coupons services she can use whenever she needs some time off. Good ideas include babysitting, making dinner, cleaning or running errands like picking up the dry cleaning or dropping kids off at school. She is sure to appreciate the gesture that acknowledges her need for some more free time.

The official first day of summer is exactly 3 months from today: June 21. Get your body ready for the hot summer days and warm summer nights just as you get your backyard ready: with planning, foresight and commitment. Here is a general outline for ensuring your body is a perfect match for the beautiful summer weather:

March 21- April 21

Commit to doing some form of cardio for at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week and include resistance training 2-3 times a week. Resistance training includes “core” exercises like front and side planks, crunches and anything requiring twisting, bending, lifting or leaning the torso and should last 15-30 minutes.

Cards, candy and chrysanthemums are all acceptable Valentine’s Day gifts. But why not give your significant other something truly special? Gifts show that you’re thinking of someone, but simply writing a letter can speak volumes. Expressing your love through words, or a song is more meaningful and more valuable than any heart shaped box. Added benefit for you: this gift is inexpensive and guaranteed to wow if you do it right. Your significant other will keep a love letter even if your relationship ends; it is a perfect token and reminder of something special. So if you’re struggling trying to think of a last minute Valentine’s Day gift, look no further than your desk and your own mind. As long as it’s from the heart, he/she is sure to be impressed.

We would all like to wish you a very happy and safe holiday weekend. We hope that your holiday will consist of all the joy and laughter you deserve and that you are surrounded by all the friends and family you love. Be safe this weekend, whether you’re travelling or staying close to home and remember that this is the time of year to appreciate all the blessings in your life, be they big or small.

It is one of our blessings to be able to provide you with environmentally-friendly products and information. So as you celebrate this season, please remember to do something nice for the planet that we all share. After all, this is a season of giving and the gift of a cleaner planet is something we all can appreciate.